Gateway Laptop User Manual

NOTEBOOK

REFERENCEGUIDE

®

Contents

Chapter 1: About This Reference. . . . . . . . . . . . 1

About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Accessing your online User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Gateway contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Gateway model and serial number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 For more information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Chapter 2: Checking Out Your Notebook . . . . . 5

Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Left . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Bottom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Keyboard area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Chapter 3: Setting Up and Getting Started . . 13

Working safely and comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Reducing eye strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Setting up your computer desk and chair . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Sitting at your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain . 15

Connecting the AC adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Protecting from power source problems . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Connecting the dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Connecting to a broadband modem or network . . . . . . . . 20 Starting your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Waking up your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Turning off your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Restarting (rebooting) your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Using the status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Using the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Key types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 System key combinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

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Programming the hotkey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Using the optional fingerprint reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Running the TouchStrip Tutorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Enrolling your fingerprints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Using the Fingerprint Control Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Using the fingerprint reader features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Using the smart card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Using a privacy filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Using the EZ Pad touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Adjusting the brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Adjusting the volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Turning your wireless radio on or off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Bluetooth radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Chapter 4: Using Drives and Accessories. . . . . 41

Changing modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Using the CD or DVD drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Identifying drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Using a CD or DVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Using the memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Memory card types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Inserting a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Using a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Removing a memory card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Adding and removing a PC Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Using a port replicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Installing a printer or other peripheral device . . . . . . . . . . 50 Connecting a USB device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Connecting an IEEE 1394 device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Viewing the display on a projector or monitor . . . . . . . . . . 52 Viewing the display on a television . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Ordering accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Chapter 5: Managing Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Monitoring the battery charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Recharging the battery(ies) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

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Changing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Replacing the main battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Installing a secondary battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Recalibrating the battery(ies) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Extending battery life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Maximizing battery performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Conserving battery power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Using alternate power sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Changing power modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Changing notebook power settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Changing the power scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Changing alarm options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Changing advanced settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Activating and using Hibernate mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Chapter 6: Traveling with Your Notebook . . . 71

Packing your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Traveling by air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Dial-up modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Radio frequency wireless connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Additional tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Chapter 7: Maintaining Your Notebook . . . . . 77

Caring for your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Cleaning your notebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Cleaning the exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Cleaning the keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Cleaning the notebook screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Maintaining the battery(ies) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Storing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Cleaning CDs or DVDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Chapter 8: Upgrading Your Notebook. . . . . . . 83

Preventing static electricity discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Adding or replacing memory modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

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Contents

Replacing the hard drive kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Chapter 9: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Safety guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 CD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Diskette drive (modular or external) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 DVD drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 File management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Fingerprint reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Hard drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Media Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Memory card reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Modem (cable or DSL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Modem (dial-up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Networks (wired) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Networks (wireless) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 PC Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Status indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Touchpad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Telephone support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122 Before calling Gateway Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

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Appendix A: Legal Information . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

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Contents

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CHAPTER1

About This Reference

•About this guide

•Accessing your online User Guide

•Gateway contact information

•Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity

•For more information

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CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

About this guide

This guide includes information and maintenance instructions that are specific to your model of Gateway notebook. For all other notebook information, see your online User Guide.

Accessing your online User Guide

In addition to this guide, your online User Guide has been included on your hard drive. Your User Guide is an in-depth, easy-to-read manual that includes information on the following topics:

•Help and technical support

•Using and customizing Windows and other software

•Using the Internet

•Protecting your files

•Playing and recording media

•Networking

•Maintenance and troubleshooting

To access your online User Guide:

•Click Start, All Programs, then click Gateway Documentation.

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Gateway contact information

Important

The labels shown in this section are for informational purposes only. Label information varies by model, features ordered, and location.

Gateway model and serial number

The label on the bottom of your notebook contains information that identifies your notebook model and its features. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance.

Online Support:

Tech Support Phone:

Hours:

Model:

S/No:

Microsoft Certificate of

Authenticity

The Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity label found on the bottom of your notebook includes the product key code for your operating system.

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CHAPTER 1: About This Reference

For more information

For more information about your notebook, visit Gateway’s Support page at www.gateway.com or the Web address shown on your notebook’s label. The Support page also has links to additional Gateway documentation and detailed specifications.

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CHAPTER2

Checking Out Your Notebook

•Front

•Left

•Right

•Back

•Bottom

•Keyboard area

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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Front

Microphone jack

LCD panel release latch

							Wireless network switch
Speaker			Power indicator						Speaker
			Battery charge indicator					Headphone jack
Component		Icon	Description
LCD panel release			Slide to open the LCD panel.
latch
Microphone jack			Plug a microphone into this jack. The built-in
			microphone (see “Keyboard area” on page 11)
			is turned off while an external microphone is
			connected.
Speakers			Provide audio output when headphones or
			amplified speakers are not plugged in.
Power indicator			■	LED on - Notebook is on.
			■	LED blinking - Notebook is in Standby mode.
			■	LED off - Notebook is off.

Battery charge indicator

■LED blue - Battery is fully charged.

■LED purple - Battery is charging.

■LED blinking red - Battery charge is very low.

■LED solid red - Battery is malfunctioning. Important: This LED only lights up when your notebook is connected to AC power or the battery charge is very low.

Wireless network	Turn the optional IEEE 802.11 wireless network
switch	radio and optional Bluetooth radio on or off. For
	more information, see “Wireless Networking” in
	your online User Guide.
	Warning: Radio frequency wireless
	communication can interfere with equipment
	on commercial aircraft. Current aviation
	regulations require wireless devices to be
	turned off while traveling in an airplane.
	IEEE 802.11 and Bluetooth communication
	devices are examples of devices that provide
	wireless communication.

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Component	Icon		Description
Headphone jack			Plugamplified speakers or headphones into this
			jack. The built-in speakers are turned off when
			speakers or headphones are plugged into this
			jack.

Left

Memory card

Kensington lock slot

Ventilation fan

PC

Card reader

USB port

IEEE 1394 port

slot

Monitor port

Component

Icon

Description

Kensington™

Secure your notebook to an object by

lock slot

connecting a Kensington cable lock to this slot.

Monitor port

Plug an analog VGA monitor or projector into

this port. For more information, see “Viewing

the display on a projector or monitor” on

page 52.

USB port

Plug a USB device (such as a diskette drive, flash

drive, printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or

mouse) into this port.

Ventilation fan

Helps cool internal components.

Warning: Do not work with the notebook

resting on your lap. If the air vents are blocked,

the notebook may become hot enough to harm

your skin.

Caution: Do not block or insert objects into

these slots. If these slots are blocked, your

notebookmayoverheatresultinginunexpected

shutdown or permanent damage to the

notebook.

Caution: Provide adequate space around your

notebook so air vents are not obstructed. Do

not use the notebook on a bed, sofa, rug, or

other similar surface.

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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Component	Icon			Description
IEEE 1394 port				Plug an IEEE 1394 (also known as Firewire® or
				i.Link®) device (such as a digital camcorder or
				MP3 player) into this 4-pin IEEE 1394 port.
PC Card slot				Insert one Type II PC Card into this slot. For
				more information, see “Adding and removing a
				PC Card” on page 48.
Memory card				Insert a memory card from a digital camera,
reader				MP3 player, PDA, or cellular telephone into the
				memory card reader. For more information, see
				“Using the memory card reader” on page 47.
				The memory card reader supports Memory
				Stick®, Memory Stick Pro®, Mini Secure
				Digital®, MultiMediaCard™,
				RS-MultiMediaCard™, Secure Digital™, and
				xD-Picture Card™cards.
				Important: RS-Multimedia Card and Mini
				Secure Digital cards require the use of an
				adapter that is available with the media.

Right

USB port				USB ports
		Modular bay		Modem jack
Smart card reader
						Ethernet jack

Component	Icon		Description
USB ports			Plug USB devices (such as a diskette drive, flash
			drive, printer, scanner, camera, keyboard, or
			mouse) into these ports.
Smart card reader			Insert a smart card in this slot for enhanced
			security. For more information, see “Using the
			smart card reader” on page 35.

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Component	Icon										Description
Modular bay											Insert a module such as a CD drive, DVD drive,
											combination DVD/CD-RW drive, multi-format
											DVD±RW drive, diskette drive, a second hard
											drive, a secondary battery, or a weightsaver
											into this bay. For more information, see
											“Changing modules” on page 42.
											To determine the type of drive in the modular
											bay, examine the drive tray’s plastic cover and
											compare the logo to those listed in “Identifying
											drive types” on page 45.
											Important: To order a module other than the
											one that came with your notebook, contact
											Gateway.
Modem jack											Plug a dial-up modem cable into this jack. For
											more information, see “Connecting the dial-up
											modem” on page 19.
Ethernet jack											Plug an Ethernet network cable into this jack.
											Plug the other end of the cable into a cable
											modem, DSL modem, or an Ethernet network
											jack. For more information, see “Connecting to
											a broadband modem or network” on page 20.

Back

								S-Video out jack
Power connector
Component		Icon						Description
Power connector								Plug the AC adapter cable into this connector.
S-Video out jack								Plug an S-Video device, such as a television, into
								this jack. For more information, see “Viewing
								the display on a television” on page 53.

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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Bottom

Battery latch

Modular bay latch

Customer care label

Main battery

Battery lock

Docking port

Online Support:

Tech Support Phone:

Hours:

Model:

S/No:

Memory bay/Hard drive bay

Component		Icon					Description
Customer							Includes the Customer Care contact information. For
Care label							more information, see “Gateway contact information”
							on page 3.
Modularbay							Slide to release the module. For more information, see
latch							“Changing modules” on page 42.
Battery latch							Slide to release the main battery. For more
							information, see “Changing batteries” on page 59.
Main battery							Provides power when the notebook is not plugged
							into AC power.
Battery lock							Slide to unlock the main battery. For more
							information, see “Changing batteries” on page 59.
Docking port							Connect the optional port replicator to this port.
							Warning: Power is passed through this port. This
							docking connection is certified to UL 1950 for use only
							with port replicators designed for your Gateway
							notebook.
Memory							■ Install a memory module into this bay. For more
bay/Hard							information, see “Adding or replacing memory
drive bay							modules” on page 85.

■The hard drive is located in this bay. For more information, see “Replacing the hard drive kit” on page 89.

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Keyboard area

		Microphone
	Hotkey	Power button
	Status indicators
	Keyboard

			Optional fingerprint reader Touchpad
Component	Icon		Description
Keyboard			Provides all the features of a full-sized, computer
			keyboard. For more information, see “Using the
			keyboard” on page 24.
Status			Inform you when a drive is in use or when a button
indicators			has been pressed that affects how the keyboard is
			used. For more information, see “Using the status
			indicators” on page 23.
Hotkey			Opens the Control Panel by default. You can program
			this button to start a different program. For more
			information, see “Programming the hotkey” on
			page 29.
Microphone			Record audio through this microphone. This
			microphone is turned off while an external
			microphone is connected. For the location of your
			microphone jack, see “Front” on page 6.
Power button			Press to turn the power on or off. You can also
			configure the power button for Standby/Resume
			mode. For more information on configuring the
			power button mode, see “Changing advanced
			settings” on page 67.

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CHAPTER 2: Checking Out Your Notebook

Component	Icon	Description
Touchpad		Provides all the functionality of a mouse. For more
		information, see “Using the EZ Pad touchpad” on
		page 36.
Fingerprint		Provides enhanced security. For more information,
reader		see “Using the optional fingerprint reader” on
(optional)		page 30.

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CHAPTER3

Setting Up and Getting Started

•Working safely and comfortably

•Connecting the AC adapter

•Connecting the dial-up modem

•Connecting to a broadband modem or network

•Starting your notebook

•Turning off your notebook

•Restarting (rebooting) your notebook

•Using the status indicators

•Using the keyboard

•Using the optional fingerprint reader

•Using the smart card reader

•Using the EZ Pad touchpad

•Adjusting the brightness

•Adjusting the volume

•Turning your wireless radio on or off

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Working safely and comfortably

Before using your notebook, follow these general guidelines for setting up a safe and comfortable work area and avoiding discomfort and strain:

•Keep hands and arms parallel to the floor.

•Adjust the screen so it is perpendicular to your line of sight.

•Place your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest.

•Although notebooks are sometimes called “laptops,” do not use your notebook while it rests on your unprotected lap. Notebook operating temperatures can become quite high, increasing the risk of burns to your legs. Instead, use a laptop desk to protect your legs.

•Do not use the notebook on any soft, conforming surface, such as your lap, a blanket, carpet, or a sofa. Soft surfaces can block your notebook’s ventilation openings, leading to overheating, permanent damage to your notebook, and fire danger. Instead, place your notebook on a rigid, hard surface, and make sure that you keep the ventilation openings on the sides clear.

Warning

Do not use your notebook on a soft surface, such as your lap, a blanket, carpet, or a sofa. You must keep your notebook’s ventilation openings clear of obstructions, or your notebook may overheat, increasing the risk of fire and personal injury.

Reducing eye strain

Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the screen or shine directly into your eyes.

•Position the computer desk and screen so you can avoid glare on your screen and light shining directly into your eyes. Reduce glare by installing shades or curtains on windows, and by installing a glare screen filter.

•Use soft, indirect lighting in your work area. Do not use your notebook in a dark room.

•Avoid focusing your eyes on your screen for long periods of time. Every 10 or 15 minutes, look around the room, and try to focus on distant objects.

•Where feasible, keep your head vertical while looking at the screen. If you use an external keyboard, raise the notebook so the top of its screen is no higher than eye level.

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Setting up your computer desk and chair

When you are setting up your computer desk and chair, make sure that the desk isthe appropriate height and the chair helps you maintain good posture.

•Select a flat surface for your computer desk.

•Adjust the height of the computer desk so your hands and arms are positioned parallel to the floor when you use the keyboard and touchpad. If the desk is not adjustable or is too tall, consider using an adjustable chair to control your arm’s height above the keyboard.

•Use an adjustable chair that is comfortable, distributes your weight evenly, and keeps your body relaxed.

•Position your chair so the keyboard is at or slightly below the level of your elbow. This position lets your shoulders relax while you type.

•Adjust the chair height, adjust the forward tilt of the seat, or use a footrest to distribute your weight evenly on the chair and relieve pressure on the back of your thighs.

•Adjust the back of the chair so it supports the lower curve of your spine. You can use a pillow or cushion to provide extra back support.

Sitting at your notebook

•Avoid bending, arching, or angling your wrists. Make sure that they are in a relaxed position when you type.

•Do not slouch forward or lean far back. Sit with your back straight so your knees,hips, and elbowsform right angles when you work.

•Take breaks to stand and stretch your legs.

•Avoid twisting your torso or neck.

Avoiding discomfort and injury from repetitive strain

•Vary your activities to avoid excessive repetition.

•Take breaks to change your position, stretch your muscles, and relieve your eyes.

•Find ways to break up the work day, and schedule a variety of tasks.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Connecting the AC adapter

You can run your notebook using an AC adapter or your notebook’s main and optional secondary batteries. The battery(ies) were shipped to you partially charged. You should use the AC adapter right away to fully charge the battery(ies). Allow three hours for the battery(ies) to fully charge.

Warning

Do not attempt to disassemble the AC adapter. The AC adapter has no user-replaceable or user-serviceable parts inside. The AC adapter has dangerous voltages that can cause serious injury or death. Contact Gateway about returning defective AC adapters.

Caution

Make sure that you use the AC adapter that came with your notebook or one of the same type purchased from Gateway. Replace the power cord if it becomes damaged. The replacement cord must be of the same type and voltage rating as the original cord or your notebook may be damaged.

Important

If the main and optional secondary batteries are not fully charged before you use your notebook on battery power for the first time, the battery life may be much shorter than you expect. If the battery life seems short even after being charged for three hours, the battery(ies) may need to be recalibrated. For information on recalibrating the battery(ies), see “Recalibrating the battery(ies)” on page 61.

To connect the AC adapter:

1 Connect the power cord to the AC adapter.

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2Connect the AC adapter to your notebook’s power connector.

3Plug the power cord into a wall outlet. The battery charge indicator turns on (see “Front” on page 6 for the location of the battery charge indicator). If the battery charge indicator does not turn on, complete the following steps until it turns on:

aUnplug the adapter from your notebook, then plug it back in.

bPress FN+F1 to toggle the status lights on and off.

cMake sure the power cord is firmly attached to the AC adapter.

dPlug the power cord into a different wall outlet.

4When you finish using your notebook for the first time, turn off your notebook and leave your notebook connected to AC power until the battery charge indicator turns blue.

Important

If the battery charge indicator does not turn blue after three hours, contact Gateway Customer Care at the location shown on the Customer Care label. For more information, see “Gateway contact information” on page 3.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Protecting from power source problems

During a power surge, the voltage level of electricity coming into your notebook can increase to levels far above normal levels and cause data loss or system damage. Protect your notebook and peripheral devices by connecting them to a surge protector, which absorbs voltage surges and prevents them from reaching your notebook.

Warning

High voltages can enter your notebook through both the power cord and the modem connection. To protect your notebook and avoid electrical shock, use a surge protector. If you have a telephone modem, use a surge protector that has a modem jack. If you have a cable modem, use a surge protector that has an antenna/cable TV jack. During an electrical storm, unplug both the surge protector and the modem.

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Connecting the dial-up modem

Your notebook has a built-in 56K modem that you can use to connect to a standard telephone line.

Warning

To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger (for example, No. 24 AWG) UL-listed or CSA-certified telecommunication line cord for your dialup modem connection.

To connect the modem:

1Insert one end of the modem cable into the modem jack on your notebook.

Tip

For the location of the modem jack on an optional port replicator, see the port replicator user guide.

2Insert the other end of the modem cable into a telephone wall jack.

Important

The modem will not work with digital or PBX telephone lines.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Connecting to a broadband modem or network

Your notebook has a network jack that you can use to connect to a cable or DSL modem or to a wired Ethernet network.

To connect to a cable or DSL modem or to a wired

Ethernet network:

1Insert one end of the network cable into the network jack on your notebook.

Tip

For the location of the network jack on an optional port replicator, see the port replicator user guide.

2Insert the other end of the network cable into a cable modem, DSL modem, or Ethernet network jack.

Starting your notebook

Warning

Do not work with the notebook resting on your lap. If the air vents are blocked, the notebook may become hot enough to harm your skin.

Caution

Provide adequate space around your notebook so air vents are not obstructed. Do not use the notebook on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface.

To start your notebook:

1Slide the latch on the front of your notebook, then lift the LCD panel.

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2Press the power button located above the keyboard.

Tip

For more information about changing the power button mode, see “Changing advanced settings” on page 67.

3If you are starting your notebook for the first time, follow the on-screen instructions to select the language and time zone and to create your first user account.

4Attach and turn on any peripheral devices, such as printers, scanners, speakers, and an optional port replicator.

Tip

For more information about connecting peripheral devices, see “Installing a printer or other peripheral device” on page 50.

Tip

See the documentation that came with each device for its setup instructions.

5To open the main menu, click Start. From that menu, you can run programs and search for files. For more information on using Windows, see “Using Windows” and “Customizing Your Notebook” in your online User Guide.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Waking up your notebook

When you have not used your notebook for several minutes or if you close the LCD panel without turning off your notebook, it may enter a power-saving mode called Standby. While in Standby mode, the power indicator flashes. If your notebook is in Standby mode, press the power button to “wake” it up.

Tip

For more information about Standby mode, see “Changing power modes” on page 63.

Turning off your notebook

To turn off your notebook:

1Click Start, then click Turn Off Computer. The Turn Off Computer dialog box opens.

2Click Turn Off. Windows shuts down and turns off your notebook.

Important

If for some reason you cannot use the Turn Off option in Windows to turn off your notebook, press and hold the power button for about five seconds, then release it.

Restarting (rebooting) your notebook

If your notebook does not respond to keyboard, touchpad, or mouse input, you may have to close programs that are not responding. If closing unresponsive programs does not restore your notebook to normal operation, you may have to restart (reboot) your notebook.

To close unresponsive programs on your notebook:

1Press CTRL+ALT+DEL. The Windows Task Manager dialog box opens.

2Click the program that is not responding.

3Click End Task.

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4Click X in the top-right corner of the Windows Task Manager dialog box.

Important

If your notebook does not turn off immediately, complete the following steps until the notebook turns off:

1.Press and hold the power button for about five seconds, then release

it.

2.Unplug the power cord and remove the main and optional secondary batteries for more than 10 seconds.

Using the status indicators

Important

If none of the indicators are on, you may need to press FN+F1 to toggle the status indicators on.

Status indicators inform you when a drive is being used or when a button has been pressed that affects how the keyboard is used. The status indicators are located to the right of the keyboard.

Num lock

Caps lock

Module

Hard drive

Wireless network

Indicator	Icon		Description
Wireless			■ LED on - Optional wireless IEEE 802.11
network			radio is turned on.

■LED off - Optional wireless IEEE 802.11 radio is turned off.

Caps lock		■	LED on - Caps lock is turned on.
	A	■	LED off - Caps lock is turned off.
Num lock		■	LED on - Numeric keypad is turned on.
	1	■	LED off - Numeric keypad is turned off.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Indicator	Icon		Description
Module			■	LED blue - Module is in use.
			■	LED solid purple - Module is ready to
				swap.
			■	LED flashing purple - Module is not
				installed in the notebook.

Hard drive	■ LED blinking - Hard drive is being
	accessed.

■LED off - Hard drive is not being accessed.

Using the keyboard

Your notebook features a full-size keyboard that functions the same as a desktop computer keyboard. Many of the keys have been assigned alternate functions, including shortcut keys for Windows, function keys for specific system operations, and the Num Lock keys for the numeric keypad.

Function keys/

System keys

Navigation keys

FN key Windows key				Arrow keys
Numeric keypad
Application			key

Tip

You can attach an external keyboard to the notebook or optional port replicator using a USB port. You do not need to shut down the notebook to connect a USB keyboard.

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Key types

The keyboard has several different types of keys. Some keys perform specific actions when pressed alone and other actions when pressed in combination with another key.

Key type	Icon			Description
Function keys				Press these keys labeled F1 to F12
				to perform actions in programs.
				For example, pressing F1 may
				open help.
				Each program uses different
				function keys for different
				purposes. See the program
				documentation to find out more
				about the function key actions.
System keys				Press these colored keys in
				combination with the FN key to
				perform specific actions. For more
				information, see “System key
				combinations” on page 26.
Navigation keys				Press these keys to move the
				cursor to the beginning of a line, to
				the end of a line, up the page,
				down the page, to the beginning
				of a document, or to the end of a
				document.
FN key				Press the FN key in combination
				with a colored system key to
				perform a specific action.
Windows key				Press this key to open the
				WindowsStart menu. This keycan
				also be used in combination with
				other keys to open utilities like
				F (Search utility), R (Run utility),
				and E (Explorer utility).
Numeric keypad				Use these keys to type numbers
				when the numeric keypad is
				turned on. Press FN+ 1 to turn on
				the numeric keypad.
Application key				Press this key for quick access to
				shortcut menus and help
				assistants in Windows.
Arrow keys				Press these keys to move the
				cursor up, down, right, or left.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

System key combinations

When you press the FN key and a system key at the same time, your notebook performs the action identified by the text or icon on the key.

Press and hold FN, then press this system key...

To...

Toggle the status indicators on or off. For more information, see “Using the status indicators” on page 23.

Turn the optional IEEE 802.11 wireless network radio on or off. For more information, see “Wireless Networking” in your online User Guide.

Warning: Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11 communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication. Important: The wireless network switch must be in the ON position for this button to work. For more information, see “Front” on page 6.

Enter Standby mode. Press the power button to leave Standby mode. For more information, see “Changing notebook power settings” on page 64.

Toggle the notebook display in the following order:

■The LCD

■An external monitor or projector (a monitor or projector must be plugged into the monitor port on your notebook or optionalportreplicatoror theDVIport on the optional port replicator)

■Both displays at the same time

For more information, see “Viewing the display on a projector or monitor” on page 52.

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Press and hold	To...
FN, then press

this system key...

Turn the optional Bluetooth radio on or off. 6 Warning: Radio frequency wireless

communication can interfere with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while traveling in an airplane. Bluetooth communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication. Important: The wireless network switch must be in the ON position for this button to work. For more information, see “Front” on page 6.

	F8	Increase the LCD panel brightness above
		the normal brightest setting. Use this
	-+	feature in bright lighting situations, such as
		outside in bright sunlight.
		Press a second time to decrease the
		brightness below the normal lowest
		brightness setting. Use this feature in dim
		lighting situations.
		Press a third time to return the display to
		the normal brightness setting.
		Important: Using this feature will affect
		battery performance.

Play or pause the CD or DVD.

Stop playing the CD or DVD.

Skip back one CD track or DVD chapter.

Skip ahead one CD track or DVD chapter.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Press and hold			To...
FN, then press
this system key...
			Increase the brightness of the display.

Decrease the brightness of the display.

Increase volume. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 38.

Decrease volume. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 38.

Mute the sound. Press the key combination again to restore the sound. For more information, see “Adjusting the volume” on page 38.

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Programming the hotkey

By default, the hotkey, located above the keyboard (see “Keyboard area” on page 11), opens up the Control Panel. You can select a different program for the button to open.

To program the hotkey:

1Click Start,All Programs, Gateway, then click Gateway Hotkey Setup. The Keyboard Hotkey Setup dialog box opens.

2Click to uncheck the Default check box.

Tip

To have the hotkey open the Control Panel, click to select

Default.

3Click Browse. The Open dialog box opens.

4Browse to the program you want to have the hotkey open, then click Open.

5Click Close.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Using the optional fingerprint reader

Your notebook may include a fingerprint reader that provides enhanced security and convenience. The fingerprint reader is located between the left and right touchpad buttons.

Features include:

•Secure logon to Windows and fast user switching between user accounts

•Password bank feature which records and replays passwords used in Windows and Web-based applications.

•A safe or folder for storing encrypted files that only a user with a matching fingerprint can access

•Boot level security that requires a fingerprint authentication before the system will boot to Windows

•Scrolling so you can use the fingerprint reader in place of the touchpad.

Running the TouchStrip Tutorial

Before using the fingerprint reader the first time, you should run the TouchStrip Tutorial which teaches you the correct method to use the fingerprint reader.

To run the TouchStrip Tutorial:

1Click Start, All Programs, Protector Suite QL, then click Fingerprint Tutorial.

2Click Next to proceed through the tutorial.

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Enrolling your fingerprints

Before you can use the features of the fingerprint reader, you must enroll your fingerprints so your notebook can identify you.

To enroll your fingerprints:

1Click Start, All Programs, Protector Suite QL, then click

User Enrollment. The Welcome screen opens.

2Click Next. The Finish screen opens.

3Select one of the following options, then click Next.

•Enrollment to the biometric device—Select this option to save your fingerprint to memory in the fingerprint reader. Use this option to prevent unauthorized use of your notebook even if the hard drive has been removed.

•Enrollment to the hard disk—Select this option to save your fingerprint to the hard drive. If you plan to enroll more than 21 fingerprints, you must select this option.

The User Enrollment wizard opens.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

4If youwant to run the TouchStrip Tutorial, leave the Run interactive tutorial check box selected, then click Next. The TouchStrip Tutorial runs. For more information, see “Running the TouchStrip Tutorial” on page 30. After you have completed the tutorial, the Enrollment screen appears.

-OR-

If you do not want to run the TouchStrip Tutorial, click to uncheck the Run interactive tutorial check box, then click Next. The Enrollment screen appears.

5Click the button above the finger you are enrolling. A new box appears with three empty circles in it.

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6Swipe your finger. A sample will be created and is indicated by a fingerprint icon in one of the circles.

7Repeat Step 6 two more times, then click Next. The

Advanced Security screen appears.

8Type apasswordinthe Backup password box, type the same password in the Retype password box, then click

Next.

9Click Finish.

Using the Fingerprint Control Center

The Fingerprint Control Center lets the administrator of the notebook control how the fingerprint reader is used. You can:

•Add new fingerprints to the database

•Edit or delete fingerprints from the database

•Modify how fingerprints are used for logging onto the notebook.

•Modify how the fingerprint reader is used for scrolling.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

To use the Fingerprint Control Center:

1Click Start, All Programs, Protector Suite QL, then click

Control Center. The Fingerprint Control Center opens.

2Click the yellow arrow in front of an option, then click the option or setting you want to change.

Using the fingerprint reader features

For more information about the fingerprint reader and how to use its features, click Start, All Programs, Protector Suite QL, then click Help.

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Using the smart card reader

Your notebook includes a smart card reader that provides enhanced log-on security. A smart card is a plastic card similar to an ATM card. Insert the card into the smart card reader, then enter a personal identification number (PIN) to log onto the notebook or the network. Smart cards are typically used by large corporations for security.

To insert a smart card:

•Insert the smart card into the smart card slot with the magnetic stripe up and to the front of the notebook.

Using a privacy filter

Your notebook’s LCD screen has been specially made to hold privacy filters. A privacy filter helps block the screen view from anyone viewing the notebook screen from a side view. For more information about getting a privacy filter, see “Ordering accessories” on page 54. To attach a privacy filter to your notebook, see the installation instructions that come with the privacy filter.

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CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started

Using the EZ Pad touchpad

The EZ Pad™ consists of a touchpad, two buttons, and a scroll zone.

Touchpad

Scroll zone

Left button		Right button

When you move your finger on the touchpad, the pointer (arrow) on the screen moves in the same direction. You can use the scroll zone to scroll through documents. Use of the scroll zone may vary from program to program.

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You can use the EZ Pad left and right buttons below the touchpad to select objects.

Tip

You can attach a mouse to the notebook or optional port replicator using a USB port. You do not need to shut down the notebook to connect a USB mouse.

Tip

For instructions on how to adjust the double-click speed, pointer speed, right-hand or left-hand configuration, and other touchpad settings, see “Changing the mouse, touchpad, or pointing device settings” in your online User Guide.

Tip

You may have received your notebook with the EZ Pad touchpad set to only accept clicking by using the touchpad buttons. You can change this feature to allow tapping on the touchpad to simulate clicking the left button. For more information, see “Changing the mouse, touchpad, or pointing device settings” in your online User Guide.

To...	Do this...
Move the	Move your finger
pointer on	around on the
the screen.	touchpad. If you
	run out of space
	andneedtomove
	the pointer
	farther, lift your
	finger, move it to
	the middle of the
	touchpad, then
	continue moving
	your finger.
Select an	Position the
object on the	pointer over the
screen.	object. Quickly
	press and release
	the left button
	once. This action
	is called clicking.
Start a	Position the
program or	pointer over the
open a file or	object. Press the
folder.	left button twice
	in rapid
	succession. This
	action is called
	double-clicking.

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	CHAPTER 3: Setting Up and Getting Started
To...	Do this...
Access a	Position the
shortcut	pointer over the
menu or find	object. Quickly
more	press and release
information	the right button
about an	once. This action
object on the	is called
screen.	right-clicking.
Move an	Position the
object on the	pointer over the
screen.	object. Press the
	left button and
	hold it down,
	then use the
	touchpad to
	move (drag) the
	object to the
	appropriate part
	of the screen.
	Release the
	button to drop
	the object where
	you want it.

Adjusting the brightness

To adjust screen brightness:

•Use the increase brightness and decrease brightness keys on the keyboard. For more information, see “System key combinations” on page 26.

Adjusting the volume

You can use the volume control to adjust the overall volume of your notebook.

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